Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 116428H) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03962C) over 1 year. This course, offered at two Melbourne locations, is designed for international students aiming to build a career in early childhood education. As part of the Education field (07), it covers child development, program planning, and regulatory frameworks. All provider and course data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge referral fees. CRICOS registration ensures that only quality-assured institutions can enrol overseas students, and the ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student in Australia.
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This diploma falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Students gain knowledge in child development from birth to age five, designing and implementing educational programs, fostering inclusive environments, and working collaboratively with families and communities. The course develops skills in observation, documentation, and assessment, along with leadership in early childhood settings. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC50121. Graduates may pursue roles such as early childhood educator, room leader, or centre director in long day care, preschool, or family day care. Note: This description provides a general overview; for specific syllabus details, contact Prospect Education Group directly.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered full-time over 1 year (52 weeks as per the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – it does not lead to a dual award or include foundation studies. Students attend classes at one of the two Melbourne campuses (see Delivery locations). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment under the ESOS framework.
Tuition fee: A$9,500 (indicative, set by Prospect Education Group). Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials, uniform): A$1,000. Estimated total: A$10,500. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always refer to the provider's website. Weekly living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$500–700 (including rent, groceries, transport). Rent for a single room in a shared house: A$250–400 per week; groceries: A$80–150; public transport (Myki): A$50 per week. Costs are indicative and subject to change.
Prospect Education Group typically requires an IELTS overall band score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) for this diploma. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 (or equivalent overseas qualifications) with satisfactory results. Some providers also require relevant work experience or a certificate-level qualification in early childhood. Foundation studies or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry – check with the provider. For detailed entry requirements, contact Prospect Education Group directly. Remember: only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 7 weeks of industry placement at 40 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) takes place in an approved early childhood education setting, such as a long day care centre, preschool, or kindergarten. You will apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment, supervised by qualified educators. The placement is arranged by the provider and is a core part of the qualification. Ensure your student visa conditions allow for this work component – it is considered part of your course.
This course is delivered at two Melbourne locations: Level 8, 118 Queens St, Melbourne VIC 3000; and SWANSTON INSTITUTE, 364 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Both are in the Melbourne CBD, easily accessible by public transport (trains, trams, buses). Melbourne is home to over 400 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The city offers a vibrant multicultural environment, high-quality education infrastructure, and strong demand for early childhood educators. Nearby suburbs include Carlton, Southbank, and Docklands, with many student accommodation options.
International students studying this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course; maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration; demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status; and meet financial capacity requirements (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel). Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act provides tuition fee protection and consumer rights. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for your application.
Melbourne is one of Australia's top study destinations, with over 200,000 international students. The city has a strong demand for qualified early childhood educators, offering excellent job prospects after graduation. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with a wide range of accommodation, dining, and transport options. The two campus locations are in the heart of Melbourne, giving you access to cultural attractions, libraries, and student support services. If you value a vibrant, multicultural city with high-quality education, Melbourne is an excellent choice for this diploma.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the HeadStart Academy search tool to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and city (Melbourne). Confirm that Prospect Education Group (CRICOS 03962C) is the right fit.
2. **Apply directly to Prospect Education Group** – Check entry requirements (English language score, prior qualifications) and gather necessary documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Submit your application through the provider's website or admissions office. Pay attention to application deadlines and intake dates (typically February, July).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC and prepare evidence of financial capacity. For visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent.
Start your journey today – explore more courses in early childhood education on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.